To solve the equation \( y(y - 1) - (y - 5)^2 = 2 \), we will first simplify the left-hand side of the equation.
Expand \( y(y - 1) \): \[ y(y - 1) = y^2 - y \]
Expand \( (y - 5)^2 \): \[ (y - 5)^2 = y^2 - 10y + 25 \]
Substitute these expansions back into the equation: \[ y^2 - y - (y^2 - 10y + 25) = 2 \]
Distribute the negative sign: \[ y^2 - y - y^2 + 10y - 25 = 2 \]
Combine like terms: \[ 9y - 25 = 2 \]
Add 25 to both sides: \[ 9y = 27 \]
Divide by 9: \[ y = 3 \]
Thus, the solution to the equation \( y(y - 1) - (y - 5)^2 = 2 \) is: \[ \boxed{3} \]